Letters

Heart Side Down
To the Editor:
I recently read Henry Spies' response to
a question on laying deck lumber in
January's "On the House" column.
The California Redwood Association
recommends applying the pith side (heart
side) down—not up. This reduces grain
raising and splinters, thus providing a
smoother, safer surface.
Keith Kersell
Manager, Technical Services
The Pacific Lumber Co.
San Francisco, Calif.
Conflicting Opinions
on Vapor Barriers
To the Editor:
Help! Over the past three years, you've
convinced us that a good vapor barrier is
essential in a well-insulated, tightly built
home. We've recently visited four different
manufacturers of well-built "modular"
homes (with 2x6 construction, 4x10 floor
joists, well-insulated walls, etc.). None of
them offer vapor barriers.
Some manufacturers say they used to
install vapor barriers,